Russian Gulch State Park

Russian Gulch State Park is one of the Medocino Coast State Parks. I took two hikes in this park: one that went a bit inland into a mixed forest of coastal redwoods, rhododendrons, and cypress, leading to a gorgeous waterfall, and another that circled the exposed headlands, which were covered in wildflowers.

Russian Gulch State Park--Trails Map

Waterfall Loop

This 7-mile hike (in yellow on the map above) is an outstanding loop that leads to the Russian Gulch Waterfall. Take the aptly named Fern Canyon Trail from the parking lot for 2 miles. At the intersection with the Falls Loop Trail, veer to the right. Stay on the Falls Loop Trail for 1.6 miles. After you pass the beautiful, 36-ft high waterfall, you'll return to Fern Canyon Trail where you'll loop back for .7 miles. When you get back to the intersection where you first peeled away, take the North Trail back to the camp ground (distance is about 2.6 miles). The trail ends by the showers, so you'll have to take a left on the campground road to get back to where you parked, about a quarter of a mile or less.  There is some elevation gain on the North Trail, but you could adapt the trail to stay on the Fern Canyon Trail if you have sensitive knees.

This is a gorgeous hike. I enjoyed the waterfall itself, but I really loved seeing all of the dew-drenched wildflowers. I was especially delighted to see that Pacific rhododendron was still blooming even into mid-June!

Headlands Trail to Devil's Punch Bowl

This 1-mile, flat loop (in pink on the map above) gives you access to panoramic views, beautiful wildflowers, and an excellent overlook of the park's most famous feature, Devil's Punchbowl. Devil's Punchbowl is a sinkhole that was formed when pounding waves formed an inland tunnel that partially collapsed. This left a hole 100 ft across and 60 ft deep. It is really cool to hike all the way around the sinkhole!